The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is alerting pet owners and veterinary professionals about reports of eye injury and irritation in both people and dogs following application of the canine ear medications Osurnia® or Claro® to dogs.

Both are FDA-approved prescription drugs that are used to treat ear infections in dogs and are intended to be administered by veterinary medical professionals. Osurnia® and Claro® each contain the antibacterial drug florfenicol and the antifungal drug terbinafine, coupled with different steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.

Most reports in people describe the eye exposures as occurring during or closely following application of these medications to the dog’s ear(s). In some reports, the eye injuries occurred after the medication was applied to the ear(s) and the dog shook his head. Others simply state that medication splashed into the eyes of the person.

As of October 17, 2017, the FDA has received two reports of corneal ulcers in people, both veterinary technicians, following accidental eye exposure to Osurnia®. Additionally, other injuries, such as eye irritation, redness, burning, stinging, and itchiness, have been reported in veterinary personnel, pet owners, or others who were near the dog during or after application of both drugs.

As of October 17, 2017, the FDA has received 10 reports of corneal ulcers in dogs associated with the use of Osurnia®, and 10 reports associated with the use of Claro®. Other clinical signs reported in dogs include eye irritation, conjunctivitis, squinting and eye pain after application of both drugs to their ears.

The FDA advises people administering Osurnia® and Claro® to take care to prevent these medications from coming into contact with their eyes, or the eyes of other people nearby. Precautions should also be taken to prevent medication getting in the eyes of the dog being treated. If accidental exposure to the eyes of people or dogs occurs, seek medical care.